2025 Father’s Day Gift Guide: Because He Doesn’t Need Another Tie

Let’s be real, your dad doesn’t want another “#1 Dad” mug, and he definitely doesn’t need another pair of socks. This year, give him something he’ll actually get excited about. Whether he’s a fashion-forward legend, a craft beer connoisseur, or just here for the snacks, we’ve rounded up the best local spots to help you gift like a pro. From style upgrades to sips, snacks, and seriously cool experiences, this guide has everything you need to win Father’s Day.

Cram Fashion | 3329 N Broadway

For the dad who always manages to look cooler than you, Cram Fashion is a no-brainer. Think sharp silhouettes, curated menswear, and just enough flair to make other dads jealous. From casual cool to dressed-up dapper, there’s something here for every kind of style icon. Get him something that says “you clean up real nice,” without saying a word.

Richard Dayhoff | richarddayhoff.com
Let’s be honest, Dad probably isn’t buying himself luxury underwear, but he should be. Richard Dayhoff’s eco-friendly performance briefs are comfy, breathable, and stylish enough to make laundry day feel like a fashion show. It’s like a little hug for his butt, and who doesn’t deserve that? Sophisticated, sustainable, and secretly sexy, just like him (maybe).

The Alley | 2620 W Fletcher

If your dad used to play bass in a band, or still thinks he should, The Alley is calling. This punk-rock paradise has leather, studs, skull rings, and enough black clothing to make a statement without saying a word. It’s cool, it’s chaotic, it’s completely unapologetic. Just like Dad when he’s in his element.

Big League Pins | bigleaguepins.com
If your dad has strong opinions about the 2016 World Series and loves a good accessory, Big League Pins is a home run. These enamel pins celebrate Chicago sports history with just the right amount of flair. Perfect for jean jackets, backpacks, or that mystery pinboard he swears he doesn’t have, these little collectibles pack a whole lot of hometown pride. Gift him something small that speaks volumes, like “Go Cubs Go,” but shinier.

Wrigleyville Sports | 959 W Addison
Your dad’s Cubs hoodie from 2005 might have character, but it’s time for a refresh. Wrigleyville Sports has the official gear for every Chicago team, so he can rep the Bears, Bulls, Sox, or Blackhawks in style. From jerseys to drinkware, it’s basically Dad Disneyland. Warning: may cause spontaneous sports trivia.

Sports World Chicago | 3555 N Clark
This place is like walking into your dad’s dream closet, if that closet was filled with Cubs jerseys, hats, and collectibles galore. Located right next to Wrigley Field, it’s the ultimate stop for any baseball-loving father figure. Whether he’s cheering from the stands or yelling at the TV, he’ll love rocking his team colors in full glory. Plus, it’s practically tradition.

Murphy’s Bleachers | 3655 N Sheffield
Murphy’s is more than a bar, it’s a vibe, and now your dad can wear it. With soft tees and classic hats, their merch is as easygoing as a Wrigleyville afternoon. If he’s ever talked your ear off over a beer here, this gift will hit him right in the nostalgia. Bonus: it pairs perfectly with a hot dog and day game.

Sluggers | 3540 N Clark
Batting cages? Check. Dueling pianos? Check. Ridiculously fun merch? Absolutely. Sluggers’ gear is made for the dad who doesn’t just love sport, he lives for the party. Give him a shirt that says, “I may not be in my twenties, but I still know how to party.”

Cubby Bear | 1059 W Addison
This place is part concert venue, part Cubs HQ, and 100% legendary. If your dad has ever told you stories that start with, “Back when I saw a show at the Cubby Bear…,” you know this merch means something. Their gear is casual, cool, and full of neighborhood soul. It’s the perfect pick for dads who love music, baseball, and being able to say “I was there.”

Cheba Hut | 3412 N Sheffield
For the dad who dreams in toasted subs and lives for laid-back vibes, Cheba Hut has merch as funky as their menu. Tie-dye hoodies, tongue-in-cheek tees, and accessories that say “I’m cool, but I also really love sandwiches.” It’s basically stoner chic, but make it dad-friendly. Pair it with a sandwich for max gift effectiveness.

Billy Goat Tavern | 3724 N Clark
If he quotes the SNL “cheezborger” sketch on command, this one’s a no-brainer. Billy Goat Tavern merch is a Chicago staple, just like your dad’s bad puns and grill-master confidence. Gift him a piece of the city’s weird and wonderful food history, minus the grease. It’s a little retro, a little iconic, and very “dad.”

Chicago Bagel Authority | 955 W Belmont
Steamy sandwiches, chaotic charm, and now, super comfy swag. CBA’s merch is great for the bagel-obsessed dad who probably still talks about the breakfast sandwich he had “that one time.” With cozy shirts and fun branding, it’s like gifting brunch that lasts all year. Warning: may cause sudden cravings.

Happy Camper | 3458 N Clark
For the dad who’s young at heart (and not above wearing the shirt that says “Hot Girls Eat Pizza”), Happy Camper’s gear is a mood. Equal parts quirky and cute, their merch brings all the fun of the restaurant home. It’s camp-core meets pizza-party, and Dad’s invited. Bonus points if you take him out for a slice while you’re at it.

Cheesie’s Pub & Grub | 958 W Belmont
There are dads who like grilled cheese, and then there are dads who worship it. Cheesie’s merch is melty, gooey perfection, just like their sandwiches. Get him a shirt that’s as unapologetically cheesy as his dad jokes. This is one gift that pairs well with ketchup and late-night cravings.

BottlesUp! | 3164 N Broadway
If your dad likes his wine the way he likes his socks, fresh, seasonal, and arriving monthly, hook him up with a BottlesUp! wine club membership. Starting at just $30 a month, he’ll get two curated bottles, recipes, rewards, and even discounts on wine classes (because yes, he’s ready to become “wine guy”). It’s thoughtful, classy, and just a little bougie, in the best way. And honestly? It’s cheaper than most rounds of golf.

Konbini & Kanpai | 3443 N Sheffield
For the dad who’s curious about sake, or already low-key obsessed, Konbini & Kanpai’s wine and sake clubs are the ultimate upgrade. Monthly memberships come with curated bottles, insider access to fun events, and serious bragging rights. Add in some stylish packaging and a few bonus goodies, and it’s a whole experience. Gift it to the cool dad who drinks globally but shops locally.

Uncommon Ground’s Green Star Brewing | 3800 N Clark
Organic beer just hits different, especially when it’s brewed right here in Lakeview East. Greenstar Brewing, housed inside Uncommon Ground, offers growlers filled with fresh, sustainable craft beer, aka, the gift that gives (and pours) again and again. It’s ideal for the eco-conscious dad who wants a great beer without the guilt. Add a local cheese board and call it dinner.

Lucky Dorr | 1101 W Waveland Ave
Lucky Dorr’s beer list reads like a who’s-who of Chicago’s best breweries, and their crowlers are packed with exclusive collabs you won’t find anywhere else. It’s the perfect way to let Dad taste something new while showing off his beer snob credentials. Plus, walking out of Wrigley with a specialty brew just feels right. This gift says, “Yes, I love you… and I know your hops.”

Good Times Brewery | 3827 N Broadway
New kid on the block, Good Times Brewery is already pouring bold, bitter, hop-happy beers that will make IPA dads grin from ear to ear. Their growlers make it easy to take the brewery vibe home, no coasters required. For the father figure who loves a good pour and an even better pun, this place lives up to its name. Cheers to good times, indeed.

DryHop Brewers | 3155 N Broadway
If your dad’s the kind of guy who lectures you on the difference between a West Coast IPA and a hazy one, DryHop is his playground. Fill a crowler or a growler with one of their small-batch, hop-forward creations, and you’ve got a gift that’s cool, local, and drinkable. It’s beer, but make it artisanal. Bonus: he can brag about it all weekend.

The Coffee & Tea Exchange | 3311 N Broadway
For the caffeine-loving dad who refuses to start his day without “real” coffee, The Coffee & Tea Exchange is like a holy grail. With a dizzying selection of fresh-roasted beans and aromatic loose-leaf teas, you’ll definitely find something that suits his brew mood. Whether he’s team espresso or herbal chill, this place has you covered. Pair it with a new mug and you’re officially the favorite child.

Intelligentsia Coffee | 3123 N Broadway
Some dads like their coffee the way they like their playlists, refined, cool, and freshly curated. Intelligentsia delivers with beans roasted daily and a vibe that says “yes, I know good coffee.” Gift him a bag of beans and a gift card so he can flex his barista skills at home or just hang out in their industrial-chic café. This is coffee that comes with main-character energy.

Wake ‘N Bacon | 420 W Belmont
If your dad runs on breakfast and bad jokes, Wake ‘N Bacon’s coffee subscription is the ultimate move. For $29.99/month, he gets one coffee every day, yes, every day, so he can fuel his mornings like a king. It’s cost-effective, cozy, and caffeinated. Plus, it might make him less grumpy before 9am.

The Lanzaga | 3736 N Broadway
For the dad who considers coffee an art form, The Lanzaga offers beans sourced from around the globe, including single-origin blends, cold brews, and espresso options that pack a punch. It’s a whole café experience bottled up into beautiful bags of beans. Whether he wants something bold, smooth, or rare, this shop knows how to deliver the buzz. Bonus points if you grab one of their house-made cold brews for the ride home.

Get In The Kitchen | 3617 N Broadway
If your dad thinks he could’ve gone pro in the kitchen, it’s time to make it official. Get In The Kitchen is Chicago’s sassiest cooking school, where the classes are equal parts hands-on and hilarious. From Cooking & Karaoke to Drag Queen Bagel Brunches, there’s always something unexpected, and gift cards let him choose his culinary destiny. Bonus: he might finally learn to stop overcooking the steak.

Clark Street Dog | 3040 N Clark
Nothing says “I love you, Dad” like beer and giardiniera from a local hot dog icon. Clark Street Dog not only sells their own housemade giardiniera by the jar, but they also teamed up with Haymarket Brewing to create the CSD Lager, a straightforward Dortmunder-style beer that goes down smoother than his dad jokes. It’s tangy, it’s toasty, and it’s totally giftable. Pair them together and you’ve got a six-pack and snack situation he’ll never forget.

Cesar’s Killer Margaritas | 2924 N Broadway
Your dad may not be the margarita type, but trust us, he will be after a taste of César’s legendary Mero Mole sauce. It’s rich, deeply flavorful, and made from a family recipe passed down through generations (sound like someone you know?). Add a jar of mole to his grilling stash and suddenly he’s the culinary king of the block. This is one of those gifts that tastes better than it has any right to.

PR Italian Bistro | 3908 N Sheridan Rd

Homemade pasta sauces from PR Italian Bistro are the kind of gift that instantly elevates Dad’s dinner game. Whether he’s whipping up spaghetti or just needs something to dunk his bread in, these sauces are packed with rich flavor and Italian soul. Grab a few jars and pair them with his favorite noodles for an easy win. It’s like giving him the tools to impress his in-laws—without breaking a sweat.

Al’s Beef | 3420 N Clark St,

If Dad considers giardiniera its own food group, Al’s Beef has your gift sorted. Their fresh, in-house canned giardiniera brings the heat (and the crunch) straight from the source. Perfect on sandwiches, sausages, or eaten straight from the jar—we’re not judging. This is peak Chicago flavor, bottled and ready to impress.

Because nothing says “I love you” like vinyl, vintage concert tees, and that one band he swears he discovered before they were cool.

Gramaphone Records | 2843 N Clark
If Dad still has a soft spot for deep cuts and club beats, Gramaphone Records is the move. This legendary shop has been serving up underground dance music since 1969—and they haven’t missed a beat since. It’s got that classic record store vibe with shelves you could get lost in for hours. Perfect for the dad who still DJs your family BBQ from a Bluetooth speaker.

Reckless Records | 929 W Belmont
For the dad who loves everything from Bowie to The Beatles to whatever’s weird and on cassette, Reckless is a goldmine. With a massive collection of LPs, vintage posters, and rare finds, this place is as iconic as the music in it. Whether he’s starting a collection or adding to an already alphabetized library, this stop is a guaranteed hit. Pair it with a fresh record sleeve and you’re good to go.

Groovin High Inc | 1047 W Belmont
Groovin High has that perfect “just browsing” energy that somehow always ends in a purchase. With records, tapes, posters, and a cool, cozy vibe, it’s a haven for dads who like their music analog and their record stores charming. It’s a little hidden gem with big music nerd energy. Bonus points if you let him tell you about the first time he bought vinyl.

Metro / smartbar/ Gman Tavern | 3730 N Clark
If your dad’s idea of a good time involves live music and a beer in hand, The Metro is a Lakeview legend. You can’t go wrong with tickets to an upcoming show, or grab some merch so he can flex his music cred between concerts. This venue has hosted some of the greatest names in music, and the experience is always electric and they have tons of vintage poster prints from some of their big acts. Give him a night out he’ll still be talking about next Father’s Day.

The NOW Massage | 3120 N Broadway
If Dad’s been carrying the weight of the world, and possibly an old lawnmower, on his shoulders, a massage from The NOW might just fix that. This isn’t your average backrub spot; it’s a soothing, stylish escape where crystals, calming vibes, and expert therapists combine for total body bliss. Book him a session or grab a gift card so he can finally relax like he means it. Because “treat yourself” isn’t just for moms anymore.

Dermatology + Aesthetics | 3245 N Halsted
Help Dad level up from soap-and-water skincare to something a little more high-performance. This trusted dermatology spot offers premium skincare products and rejuvenating treatments that’ll have him glowing (even if he claims he doesn’t care). Whether it’s a simple moisturizer or a little pro-grade magic, their expert team can help you find the perfect gift. Think of it as self-care… with science.

Luxura Med Spa | 3135 N Broadway
For the dad who’s been curious about trying something a little fancier, Luxura Med Spa is here to make it easy, and low-key fabulous. With high-end treatments, skin tech, and seasonal specials, they offer everything from subtle refreshers to full-on glow-ups. Whether he’s looking to soften those “wisdom lines” or just wants to feel a little sharper, this gift says, “You’re already handsome, but let’s turn it up a notch.” And honestly? Why not.

De La Vie Day Spa | 3120 N Sheffield

If your dad’s idea of “me time” is binging sports, it might be time to reboot his routine with something a bit more… zen. De La Vie Day Spa in Lakeview is a sanctuary of glow-ups, from men’s facials and body wraps to deep-tissue massages that melt away superhero-level stress. They’re so good at it they were voted a Top‑5 Chicago spa by TimeOut. A gift card here basically reads: “Thanks for being my dad. Now go relax and look fabulous doing it

SWAY | 3340 N Halsted St
For the dad who deserves to kick back in style, SWAY is locally owned, totally curated, and cooler than he’ll ever admit to being. Whether he’s into flower, vapes, or just wants to finally understand what “microdosing” means, their staff makes it easy. Go in for Dad… and maybe walk out with something for yourself, too.

Sunnyside | 3524 N Clark
The OG of the neighborhood, Sunnyside is the place for cannabis classics and crowd-pleasers. Their lineup has something for every vibe—sleepy, silly, snacky, or “just gonna stare at the grill for a while.” It’s dad-friendly, no-pressure, and they’ll answer all his questions without making him feel like a narc. Bonus: he’ll definitely say, “this is way different than the stuff in the ’70s.”

Edibles Express | 3759 N Racine Ave
Brand new on the block and already making waves, Edibles Express is exactly what it sounds like: snacks that do things. If your dad’s more of a “treat and chill” guy, this is the perfect way to ease into the scene. From mellow gummies to tasty chocolates, it’s the adult version of a Father’s Day treat basket, just with a little more buzz.

Cuddle Bunny | 2901 N Clark
If Dad’s soft spot is… well, soft bunnies, this is the ultimate gift. At Cuddle Bunny, you can book him a play session with adoptable fluffballs or surprise him with a one-of-a-kind experience like Bunny Yoga or Sketch-a-Bun. It’s equal parts wholesome, hilarious, and surprisingly therapeutic. Trust us, he won’t stop talking about the time he did downward dog next to a rabbit named Pancake.

The Catcade | 624 W Belmont
Is your dad more of a cat-and-vintage-arcade type? The Catcade is basically his dream hangout. For $20, he can lounge with adoptable cats, play retro video games, and live out his chillest, furriest fantasies. Book a visit or snag him some of their adorable merch so he can wear his feline fandom loud and proud.

Lola and Bowie | 3335 N Broadway
For the dad who proudly calls his dog “his best friend,” Lola and Bowie is the kind of pet-parent paradise that gets him. They’ve got clever tees, mugs, hats, and gear that say “obsessed” in the classiest way possible. Whether he’s a dog guy, cat guy, or just someone who thinks animals are better than people (fair), this place has gifting covered.

The Iggy Experience | 3221 N Clark
If your dad deserves some serious stress relief, and maybe a little fabulous company, book him a session at The Iggy Experience. This brand-new boutique play lounge lets you hang out with a whole crew of Italian Greyhounds, aka the most stylish, long-legged little drama queens you’ll ever meet. It’s part cuddle fest, part therapy session, and all-around adorable. Give Dad an hour with these tiny fashion icons and watch his blood pressure drop (and his Instagram game go way up).

S. Rosengard & Co. | 3347 N Broadway
If your dad is the type to say things like “they just don’t make ‘em like they used to,” send him straight to S. Rosengard. This antique shop is filled with treasures, silver, barware, oddities, and collectibles, that are as full of character as he is. Whether he’s building out his bar cart or hunting for the perfect conversation piece, this place delivers old-school charm in spades. Think “Indiana Jones meets estate sale” and you’re on the right track.

Randall Hopkins Antiques | 2929 N Broadway
For the dad with refined taste and a soft spot for a good English accent, Randall Hopkins is a goldmine of 18th to 20th-century antiques. Their curated collection feels like it was plucked from a country manor and dropped right into Lakeview. It’s the perfect spot to find something stately, unique, and guaranteed to spark a few “back in my day” stories. Extra points if you call it a “bespoke heirloom.”

Artful Framer Studios | 2938 N Clark
Got a photo of the two of you that’s fridge-magnet famous? It’s time to upgrade it. Artful Framer can turn a sentimental moment into a beautifully framed keepsake, or you can browse their gallery for original artwork that suits his vibe. It’s thoughtful, artsy, and way more meaningful than another novelty T-shirt. Dads love stuff that feels personal, and this hits the mark.

Crest Lighting | 3300 N Sheffield
Light up his life (literally) with a sleek fixture upgrade from Crest Lighting. Whether he’s been talking about dimmers since daylight saving time or just wants to see better in the garage, this spot’s got functional flair. Bonus: spend $200 and you get a free Lutron Maestro dimmer, so now he can really show off during dinner parties. Or, you know, while reading the paper in his recliner.

Foursided | 2958 N Clark & 2939 N Broadway
If your dad’s vibe is “slightly quirky, deeply thoughtful, and maybe a little too into maps,” Foursided is your gifting jackpot. From vintage prints and cool home décor to niche gifts you didn’t know existed, this place is practically a curated version of his personality. Whether he’s into retro baseball stuff or weird art with birds, you’ll find something that makes him say, “Whoa, where’d you find this?” And then he’ll proudly show it to everyone.

Ace Hardware | 3921 N Sheridan
For the DIY dad who owns more tools than shoes, Ace Hardware is a no-frills wonderland. From power tools to planters, grilling gadgets to garden beds, they’ve got everything he needs for weekend warrior status. It’s the kind of place where he can get mulch and feel deeply fulfilled about it. Wrap up a gift card with a bag of potting soil and call it peak dad-core.

Unabridged Bookstore | 3251 N Broadway
Maybe your dad isn’t into power tools, but give him a quiet chair and a new book and he’s happy for hours. Unabridged has an incredible range of reads, bestsellers, indie gems, and even gardening guides for his new patio obsession. It’s cozy, charming, and full of titles he’ll pretend not to cry at. Honestly, throw in a good bookmark and you’re golden.

Plant Stand Collective | 3247 N Broadway
If your dad talks to his plants more than people, we respect that, and so does Plant Stand Collective. This shop is filled with handsome greenery, perfectly potted succulents, and aesthetic planters that’ll make his house look like a design blog. Whether he’s a seasoned plant parent or just learning to keep a fern alive, this place has thoughtful gifts rooted in good taste. (Sorry. We had to.)

Chicago Comics | 3244 N Clark

For the dad who still remembers the thrill of flipping through back issues on a Saturday afternoon, Chicago Comics is pure nostalgia. This iconic shop is packed with graphic novels, collectibles, indie zines, and superhero goodness. Whether he’s Team Marvel, Team DC, or just really into weird art books, there’s something here to nerd out over. Grab him a gift card and let him live his comic book dreams, no cape required.

Graham Cracker Comics | 3162 N Broadway

Graham Cracker Comics is the kind of place that makes dads say, “Oh man, I used to have this one!” Stocked with classic issues, new releases, figurines, and pop culture treasures, it’s a playground for anyone who’s ever loved a good storyline and a solid punch sound effect. It’s the perfect stop for the comic-curious or the full-blown collector. Trust us, this gift is more exciting than a crossover event.

X-Golf Wrigleyville | 3549 N Sheffield
If your dad’s golf game is strong but his patience for bad weather isn’t, X-Golf is the move. This high-tech indoor golf simulator lets him work on his swing, sip a cold one, and pretend he’s at Pebble Beach, all without leaving Wrigleyville. Book him a session or grab a gift card so he can go full PGA, rain or shine. Bonus: no one yelling “FORE!” from the next fairway over.

North Side Archery Club | 2818 N Halsted
For the dad who grew up watching Robin Hood and now has opinions about arrow spine flex, a class at North Side Archery is a bullseye. They offer sessions for beginners and seasoned sharpshooters alike, no tights or treehouses required. It’s a gift that’s adventurous, slightly unexpected, and way more fun than a necktie.

Johnny Sprockets | 3140 N Broadway
If your dad’s idea of a perfect day includes a long bike ride and unsolicited advice about tire pressure, Johnny Sprockets is where to shop. They’ve got all the gear, gadgets, and expert service a cycling enthusiast could ask for, plus the kind of team that actually enjoys talking about derailleur adjustments. Treat him to a tune-up, some new bike accessories, or even just a stylish helmet upgrade. It’s the kind of gift that says, “I support your Tour de Lakeview dreams.”

Fred Astaire Dance Studios Lakeview | 2825 N Halsted
Let’s be honest, if your dad’s got even half the moves he claims he had in the ’80s, it’s time to put them to the test. Fred Astaire Dance Studios offers classes that’ll get him spinning, stepping, and maybe even dipping, whether he’s flying solo or bringing a partner. From ballroom basics to wedding-worthy grooves, this gift says, “You still got it.” And hey, he might just surprise you (and himself).